We can't stop every terror attack. Here's how we can train our citizens to survive them

The Telegraph

by Lloyd Figgins

the recent attacks in Westminster and Stockholm have highlighted the need for greater public vigilance. Not only in order to prevent attacks in the first place, but also to understand how to react once an attack is underway.

A key part of this is what the security industry refers to as “situational awareness” and it’s an effective tool for those trained how to use it properly.

However, situational awareness requires an understanding of what is normal in order that a baseline can be established and anomalies can be identified.

In both Westminster and Stockholm vehicles were used as weapons. People expect to see vehicles on our streets, so how do we tell the difference between those going about their normal business and those with malicious intent? After all, those who would do us harm rely on the fact that they are able to blend in in order to carry out their attacks.

Therefore, it’s the small pre-event indicators we need to be aware of, the change in engine pitch, the screech of tyres or the sound of people shouting. Unfortunately, most people are not attuned to such warning signs, not just because they haven’t been trained, but simply because they wander around in their own world, or are too busy concentrating on their phone rather than what’s going on around them.

In Britain we are blessed with having the best police and security services in the world. But in order for them to be able to do their job effectively, they need the public’s help.